Calanques National Park (Parc National des Calanques)

The basics

Snorkelers and scuba divers are rewarded with a kaleidoscope of marine life during underwater excursions to Monte Cristo, home of the prison that inspired Alexander Dumas’ work of classic literature. Travelers without the desire to go underwater can explore the park with ease on an electric bike tour or fishing trip. Keep your eyes peeled for daredevils abseiling or diving from the colossal cliffs.

If you're short on time in the treasured French Riviera, consider combining sightseeing tours of Marseille and Cassis with a visit to Calanques National Park. Alternatively, opt to spend more time in the park’s crystal-clear waters with a two-day scuba diving course.

Things to know before you go

• Most Calanques National Park (Parc National des Calanques) tours provide round-trip transport from your accommodation in Marseille, Cassis, or the Aix-en-Provence area.

• Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen to the park.

• It's best to wear comfortable shoes fit for outdoor exploration.

• Note that camping and motorized water sports are not allowed in the protected area.

How to get there

Although nestled between popular Marseille and Cassis, Calanques National Park (Parc National des Calanques) is not easy to access by public transport or without a guide. The best way to visit the national park is by boat from Port de Cassis (cruises depart every 90 minutes daily) or on a day trip from central Marseille. If arriving by car, be aware that the closest beach is about a one-hour hike from available parking lots.

When to get there

The most popular time to visit the French Riviera is during the summer months of June to September, when temperatures sit comfortably around 75℉ (24℃) and rain is nowhere to be found. However, if you prefer cooler climates and want to miss the crowds, May and June are the ideal months to head to the park.

What’s in a name?

The French word “calanque” translates as a narrow, rocky inlet with steep walls found on the Mediterranean coast. Calanques National Park is made up of a series of these inlets, known separately as Calanque de Sormiou, Calanque de Morgiou, Calanque d’En-Vau, Calanque de Port-Pin, and Calanque de Sugiton. Showcasing marbled-blue waters and dramatic, craggy cliffs, the rocky promontories are best discovered on a long hike or by kayak.

Ways to explore

The main visitor bases in the Calanques National Park are La Ciotat, Cassis, and Marseille, and there are plenty of organized day trips and excursions from each town. While most guided options are geared toward active types (think cycling, hiking, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding), there are also tours by vintage car, which offer stops in or around the park to soak up its beauty. Calanques cruises and boat rentals are also popular, and depart from La Ciotat, Cassis, and Marseille.

Accessibility

The terrain is challenging for wheelchair users, but Sormiou and Morgiou beaches are partially accessible. There are also lookout points with parking on the Route des Crêtes.

Age limits

Visitors of all ages are welcome, but remember that the terrain is almost mountainous. Accessing secluded beaches requires some walking, so bring a baby carrier for very small kids.

What to pack

Food and water (there are no eateries), a bag for trash, bug spray, a microfiber towel, a paper map (internet connection here is patchy), sun lotion, an umbrella for shade, water shoes

What to wear

Hiking boots for the trails, layers to combat the often-windy weather, sunglasses, a sun hat

Not allowed

Camping, off-leash dogs, hiking off the marked trails, noise pollution, smoking and barbecues (to reduce the risk of wildfires)

Amenities

There are no amenities in this unspoiled national park, even at the beaches.

Address 

Before you even think about how to get there, make sure that the park is open to visitors. Due to wildfire risks, there are frequent trail closures between June and September; check the Bouches-du-Rhône official website before your visit.

Driving

Vehicle access in the Calanques National Park is highly regulated, so it’s advisable to leave the car behind. However, if it’s open, the Route de la Gineste between Marseille and Cassis offers a scenic drive with views of the calanques.

Public transportation

The Régie des Transports Métropolitains (RTM) buses offer services to the park’s main entrances. There are more frequent options for popular calanques such as Sormiou. Routes are updated and listed on the official Calanques National Park website.

Best times to visit

If you’re visiting in the peak summer season, rise early to hit the trails before the crowds arrive.

Best days to visit

The park is open every day, so there’s no bad day to visit; however, weekdays are generally quieter.

Best months to visit

While summer is best for swimming, spring, fall, and winter offer fewer crowds, pleasant hiking conditions, and better access to hiking trails.